2021 - VGW Chardonnay, 00 Wines, Willamette Valley

The 2021 Chardonnay VGW is dusty and floral, with a nuanced bouquet of lemon oils, nectarine and crushed stone. It’s soft and luxuriously round. Stimulating acidity balances a pretty inner sweetness as mineral-tinged orchard fruits saturate the palate. This finishes long and sapid with a spicy tension as hints of candied citrus slowly fade. The balance within is absolutely fantastic. If served blind, my mind would immediately go to Premier Cru white Burgundy.

The 2021 Chardonnay VGW comes from grapes harvested September 10–24. The wine was matured for 12 months in 29% new Chassin, Damy and Billon barrels, plus an additional six months in stainless steel. On the nose, white peaches are accented by honeycomb, roasted almonds and honeysuckle. The palate pairs concentrated, honeyed fruit with mouthwatering acidity and a silky texture, and it has a gently perfumed, ethereal finish. Give it a couple of hours in a decanter. 1,218 cases were made.

Very pretty and perfumed nose. Super-inviting with hints of blossom, pure fruit and some gentle spiciness. It’s creamy and round, but with a core of mouth-watering acidity. Plenty of freshness, fruit purity and textural complexity. (FG)